The sheriff-coroner of California’s San Bernardino County has expressed deep concern over the recent arrest of one of his deputies on serious weapons charges. The 45-year-old deputy, Christopher Bingham, was taken into custody after an investigation revealed his alleged connections to a local biker gang.
According to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, a search of Bingham's home in Twentynine Palms uncovered a staggering 160 firearms, including a fully automatic assault rifle with an attached grenade launcher. Sheriff Shannon Dicus condemned Bingham's actions as 'alarming and inexcusable,' stating that such behavior tarnishes the badge and undermines the department's integrity.
As a result of the investigation, Bingham has been placed on compulsory leave and is being held on $500,000 bail. The case has been forwarded to the District Attorney’s Office, and charges have been filed against the deputy.
The sheriff’s department initiated the investigation into Bingham's ties to a local Outlaw Motorcycle Gang (OMG) in January. On March 23, Bingham was observed riding his motorcycle with two OMG members, leading to a traffic stop by the California Highway Patrol. During the stop, a loaded, unregistered firearm was found on Bingham's person, resulting in his immediate arrest.
Subsequent searches of Bingham's residence uncovered not only the extensive firearms arsenal but also destructive devices, silencers, OMG paraphernalia, and a stolen San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department shotgun. Bingham now faces charges including Possession of a Machine Gun, Possession of Silencers, Possession of Destructive Device, Possession of Stolen Firearm, and being an Active Participant in a Criminal Street Gang.
This arrest follows a series of officer-involved shootings involving the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, raising concerns about law enforcement practices in the area. Sheriff Dicus has assured that all incidents, including the recent shootings of individuals with mental health issues, are under thorough investigation.
